The Detroit Pistons staged a remarkable rally on Friday night, overcoming a 24-point deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic 93-78 in Game 6 and force a winner-take-all Game 7 on Sunday in Detroit.
Cade Cunningham delivered a standout performance with 32 points and 10 rebounds, leading the charge as Detroit mounted one of the most impressive comebacks in recent playoff memory. After trailing 60-38 in the third quarter, the Pistons clamped down defensively and surged back to stay alive in the series.
Postgame, Cunningham captured the team’s resilient spirit in just three words when speaking to NBA on Prime TV. “Never say die,” he declared.
This mindset has defined Cunningham’s approach throughout the series. Down 3-1, he exploded for 45 points in Game 5 to extend Detroit’s season. The Pistons have faced plenty of challenges, including high turnovers in Game 4 and a tough 29 percent shooting from three-point range across the matchup. They’ve also battled a physical Orlando squad in the paint, but Cunningham has consistently shouldered the load to keep hopes alive.
Looking ahead to Game 7, Detroit will need to maintain their strong defensive intensity—they limited the Magic to just 12 points in the first 20 minutes of the second half in Game 6. Rebounding will be crucial, with contributors like Tobias Harris (22 points) and Ausar Thompson stepping up alongside Cunningham. Protecting the ball and getting balanced scoring from the supporting cast will be key to pulling off the series upset.
One thing is certain: with Cunningham leading the way, the Pistons refuse to go down without a fight.